Paumchariyam Part 04 - Book Summary

This comprehensive summary is based on the provided Jain text, "Paumchariyam Part 04," authored by Parshvaratnavijay and published by Omkarsuri Aradhana Bhavan. The text is the fourth volume of the Paumacariyam (Pudma Charitra), a significant Jain text in Prakrit.

Overall Context:

Title: Paumchariyam (Pudma Charitra), Volume 04.
Author: Munishri Parshvaratnavijay (also credited as shadow artist, researcher, and editor).
Publisher: Acharya Omkarsuri Aradhana Bhavan, Gopi Pura, Surat.
Series: Acharya Omkarsuri Gyanmandir Granthavali - 68.
Previous Editors/Researchers: Dr. Herman Jacobi (former editor), Munipujyavijay M. (researcher and re-editor).
Significance: The Paumacariyam is described as a unique Prakrit text, the oldest Jain Ramayana, detailing the story of Rama (Pudma). It's noted that the earliest comprehensive study and publication were done by the German scholar Herman Jacobi.

Key Information from the Initial Pages:

Volume 04: This specific volume is part of a larger series, indicating a detailed and extensive presentation of the text.
Author's Role: Munishri Parshvaratnavijay is credited with significant work, including creating a Sanskrit "shadow" (Chhaya) of the original Prakrit text, along with research and editing. This suggests a dual presentation, making the complex Prakrit text more accessible through Sanskrit.
Publisher's Commitment: The publication is a testament to the efforts of Acharya Omkarsuri Aradhana Bhavan and its associated institutions in preserving and disseminating Jain literature. The mention of multiple contact points in Ahmedabad and Bhiladiya implies a wide distribution network.
Dedication: Page 4 indicates a dedication to "Dikshadaneshwari, Yuva Jagruti Prerak P.P. A.B. Shri Gunaratnasurishwarji M.Sa."
Editorial Guidance: The publication was undertaken with the inspiration and guidance of figures like P.P. A.B. Shri Arvindasurishwarji M.Sa. and P.P. Muni Muni Chandrasuri M.Sa.
Research Efforts: Munishri Parshvaratnavijay and Sadhvi Mahayashashriji are lauded for their diligent proofreading and research, driven by their devotion to scripture (Shruta Bhakti).

Content and Scholarly Discussion (Pages 7-11):

Nature of the Text: 'Paumacariyam' is identified as a Prakrit work, translating to the story of Rama. It's recognized as the oldest Jain Ramayana.
Historical Context and Authorship:
- The author, Vimalsuri, is presented as a follower of Rahusuri, who was a master of his own and other schools of thought. Vijay was Vimalsuri's disciple, belonging to the Naila lineage.
- Vimalsuri composed the 'Paumacariyam' in a concise form, drawing inspiration from the narratives of Narayana (Vasudeva) and Baladeva found in ancient texts ('Purva').
- The composition date is stated as 530 years after the Nirvana of Lord Mahavir.
- The text's existence before the 7th century Vikram is established by its mention in Udyotan Suri's 'Kuvalayamala' (778 CE). Some scholars suggest a connection to a 677 CE 'Padma Charit' as an expanded version.
- Scholarly Debate on Sect Affiliation: While the author provides details suggesting Shvetambara affiliation (e.g., the mention of 'Jinendra' speaking words, which Digambara tradition states they do not), certain points noted by scholars like V.M. Kulkarni and Dr. K.R. Chandra (in their studies) suggest possible Digambara influences or later interpolations. This is attributed to potential alterations by individuals influenced by Digambara thought during manuscript copying. Examples cited include differences in the height of Kulakaras and potential modifications to align with Digambara texts like 'Tiloyapannatti'.
Key Arguments for Shvetambara Affiliation (as per Shri Kulkarni):
1. Naila Kula: The Naila lineage is identified with the Naili Shakha or Nagendra Gaccha, and the epithet 'Nailakulavansanandikar' applied to Vimalsuri's guru aligns with Shvetambara traditions (as seen in the Nandisutra).
2. 'Seyambara' Usage: The word 'Seyambara' (Shvetambara) appears explicitly multiple times in the text.
3. Language: The language used is Maharashtri Prakrit, prevalent in most Shvetambara canonical and narrative literature, unlike the predominantly Shauraseni Prakrit found in Digambara literature.
Dating Discrepancies: Scholars like Herman Jacobi, Dr. K. H. Dhruv, Pandit Parmanand Jain Shastri, and Pandit Kalyanvijayji offer different dating estimates, challenging the author's stated timeline. The reasons cited include the use of words like 'Yavana', 'Suranga', 'Dinar', and Greek-influenced names of planets, suggesting later composition. However, counter-arguments highlight the earlier presence of these terms and influences. The text argues that Vimalsuri's statement of composing 530 years after Mahavir's Nirvana should be accepted unless a compelling reason suggests otherwise.
Sanskrit Shadow (Chhaya): The practice of creating Sanskrit translations or 'shadows' of Prakrit texts is discussed as a valuable method to enhance accessibility and study, especially given the comparative scarcity of secondary literature for Prakrit compared to Sanskrit. The efforts of Sadhvi Mahayashashriji in creating the Sanskrit shadow for this text are commended.

Table of Contents (Granthanukramah) - Fourth Division (Pages 12-14):

This section provides a detailed chapter breakdown (Parvan) for Volume 04, listing chapter numbers and their titles, primarily focused on the latter parts of the epic narrative. Key chapter themes include:

Events in Mathura (Mahuranivesapavvam)
The story of Manoroma and her attainment (Manoromalambhapavvam)
The glories of Rama and Lakshmana and the subjugation of Vidhyadharas (Ram-Lakshanavibhuitdarshanam)
The worship of Sita and the fulfillment of her desires (Siyajinpujaadohadapavvam)
Concerns and thoughts of the people (Janchintapavvam)
Sita's exile (Sitanivvasanapavvam)
Sita's solace (Sitasamasasanapavvam)
The birth of Lavana and Kusha (Lavan-Ankusautpattipavvam)
Lavana and Kusha conquering territories (Lavan-Ankusadesavijayapavvam)
The war between Lavana and Kusha (Lavan-Ankusayuddhupavvam)
The reunion of Lavana and Kusha (Lavan-Ankusasamagamapavvam)
The mourning of Rama (Ramashokapavvam)
The subsequent events related to divine intervention and ascensions (Devagamavidhanapavvam)
Rama's religious teachings and spiritual journey (Ramadharmasravanavidhanapavvam)
The past lives of Rama and Sita and Sita's renunciation (Rampuvvabhav-Sitapravrajyavidhanapavvam)
And numerous other chapters detailing specific events and characters within the epic.

Narrative Content of Sample Chapters (Pages 14-39):

Chapter 89: Mahuranivesapavvam: Details the events in Mathura, focusing on the spiritual journey of seven sages, their influence on the city, and the king's devotion.
Chapter 90: Manoramalambhapavvam: Tells the story of Manoroma, daughter of King Ratnaratha, and her connection to Lakshmana, involving Vidhyadharas and conflicts.
Chapter 91: Ram-Lakshanavibhuitdarshanam: Describes the military prowess of Lakshmana in conquering Vidhyadharas and enumerates various cities and the royal lineages, including detailed accounts of Rama's and Lakshmana's consorts and children.
Chapter 92: Siyajinpujaadohadapavvam: Focuses on Sita's spiritual desires during her pregnancy and her devotion to Jain deities, involving the worship of Jinendra temples.
Chapter 93: Janchintapavvam: Depicts the anxieties and concerns of the people, particularly concerning Sita, and the subsequent royal pronouncements and actions.
Chapter 94: Sitanivvasanapavvam: Details the poignant story of Sita's exile from Ayodhya, her suffering in the forest, and the interactions she encounters, including the poignant farewell and her subsequent abandonment.
Chapter 95: Sitasamasasanapavvam: Describes Sita's solace and acceptance of her fate, her encounter with King Vajrajangha, and his compassionate offer of refuge, emphasizing the importance of righteous conduct.
Chapter 96: Ramashokapavvam: Chronicles Rama's deep sorrow and despair over Sita's exile and the perceived injustice, highlighting his internal conflict and devotion to dharma.
Chapter 97: Lavan-Ankusautpattipavvam: Narrates the birth of Lavana and Kusha, their upbringing, and their extraordinary qualities.
Chapter 98: Lavan-Ankusadesavijayapavvam: Details the military campaigns and conquests of Lavana and Kusha, their diplomatic interactions, and their growing influence.
Chapter 99: Lavan-Ankusayuddhupavvam: Describes the intense battles and the martial prowess displayed by Lavana and Kusha against formidable opponents, showcasing their strength and skill.
Chapter 100: Lavan-Ankusasamagamapavvam: Depicts the reunion of the princes with their family, the reconciliation of disputes, and the eventual establishment of peace and prosperity.
Chapter 101: Devagamavidhanapavvam: Discusses divine interventions and the impact of virtuous actions on the lives of individuals and society, including the role of gods and the consequences of karma.
Chapter 102: Ramadharmasravanavidhanapavvam: Focuses on Rama's spiritual reflections, his understanding of dharma, karma, and the cycle of birth and death, emphasizing the importance of righteous conduct and devotion to Jain principles.
Chapter 103: Rampuvvabhav-Sitapravrajyavidhanapavvam: Delves into the past lives of Rama and Sita, exploring their actions and their consequences across different lifetimes, highlighting the cyclical nature of existence and the path to liberation.
Chapter 104: Lavan-Ankusapuvvabhavanukittanapavvam: Continues the narrative of past lives, tracing the karmic journey of characters and emphasizing the impact of their deeds.
Chapter 105: Madhu-Ketvupakhyanapavvam: Recounts the story of Madhu and Ketu, their lives, actions, and eventual spiritual realization, illustrating the principles of karma and liberation.
Chapter 106: Lakshmanakumarnishkramanaapavvam: Describes the moment of Lakshmana's renunciation and his spiritual path.
Chapter 108: Hanumannirvanapavvam: Details Hanuman's spiritual journey and his ultimate attainment of liberation.
Chapter 110: Lavan-Ankushatavovananivesapavvam: Narrates the story of Lavana and Kusha's ascetic practices and their spiritual dedication.
Chapter 113: Kalyanmitradevagamanapavvam: Depicts the spiritual awakening of characters and their pursuit of liberation through adherence to Jain dharma.
Chapter 114: Baladevaniṣkramaṇapavvam: Chronicles Baladeva's renunciation and spiritual path.
Chapter 115: Baladevmunigocharasankshobhavidhanapavvam: Details the spiritual discipline and experiences of Baladeva Muni.
Chapter 116: Baladevmunidanaprasamsavidhanapavvam: Highlights the merits and significance of acts of charity and devotion performed by Baladeva Muni.
Chapter 117: Padmakevalajnanulpattividhanapavvam: Describes the attainment of Kevala Jnana (omniscience) by Padma (Rama).
Chapter 118: Padmanirvanagamanapavvam: Narrates the final liberation (Nirvana) of Padma (Rama).

Overall Impression:

This volume of the Paumacariyam continues to present a rich and complex narrative, blending detailed accounts of the Ramayana epic with profound Jain philosophical teachings. The text not only narrates the story but also interweaves discussions on karma, dharma, the cycle of rebirth, and the path to liberation, exemplified by the spiritual journeys of various characters, including Rama, Lakshmana, Sita, Lavana, Kusha, and Baladeva. The scholarly introduction and the chapter breakdown underscore the meticulous research and editorial effort involved in making this significant Jain text accessible to a wider audience.